Everyone knows the advantages of carbon fiber and various modern composites. Light weight while having very high strength. Metal still rules the engine building world but consider carbon fiber connecting rods for a moment.

On paper, the idea works. They are lighter than comparable metals for the size which in theory should have a motor be freer revving. High rpm applications would likely benefit from less vibration.

The strength of the pictured rod is said to be enough for a nitromethane burning top fuel car. That strength is offered with half the weight of the metal pieces. The rods also will not fatigue in the same manner.

We see carbon fiber applications in areas such as wheels where metal used to rule the day. Maybe connecting rods are next? Lamborghini is apparently already experimenting with the idea for a production motor. At what price point though...